As the clocks go back on Sunday October 27th, Halifax Home Insurance is reminding people to take extra precaution in securing their homes as dark evenings provide cover for burglars.

According to the lender the average cost of a winter burglary is £1,746, up 14% compared to the average cost of a summer burglary claim.

Last year the insurer paid out almost £13m in winter burglary claims, a 21% rise compared to the summer months.

Martyn Foulds, senior claims manager at Halifax Home Insurance, said: “The cover of darkness makes life easier for petty thieves looking for an easy target, so we are reminding homeowners that a few simple steps can go a long way to avoiding the stress and inconvenience a burglary brings.

“While insurance will cover the financial loss, it may not be able to replace unique family heirlooms or items of sentimental value, so it’s always best to take preventative steps to protect the things you treasure most.”

Tips to keep your home safe:

• Keep doors and windows locked, even when at home.
• Security lights can alert you to people approaching the house, and gravel driveways make it possible to hear them coming too.
• Have a British standard approved burglar alarm installed, and always set it when leaving your home unoccupied and also at night. One which has a direct link to the police is a good idea.
• A dog barking can deter a burglar, and even seeing a sign saying ‘beware of the dog’ will make many think twice about attempting a break in.
• High walls, spiky railings and prickly bushes around a property can make it more difficult to break in, and also harder to get away if burglars are disturbed.
• Keep tools and ladders that can be used to break in to the home locked away.